Only a few tickets remain. Tickets are free and available at Washburn's Mabee Library and the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library. Following the lecture, Averill will be available for a book signing in the lobby, White Concert Hall and “rode” will be available for purchase.

“rode” features Averill’s story behind the folk ballad “Tennessee Stud” and has been named Outstanding Western Novel of 2011 as part of the Western Heritage Awards given each year in Oklahoma City, home of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. “rode” also was named a Spur Award Finalist by the Western Writers of America.

Alan Bearman, dean of libraries, said feedback has been positive from students in WU101, the required first year experience course.

"Our students are enamored by the book because they report seeing themselves in the story," he said.

WU101 students are expected to attend tonight's event.

Established in 2007, the Washburn iRead program gives students the opportunity to participate in a common reading experience intended to expand their critical thinking, discussion and reading skills, while also fostering campus involvement and enhancement of the campus community.

All incoming first-year Washburn students are introduced to the book at summer orientation events and are encouraged to read the book over the summer. During the fall 2013 semester, students read this book in disciplines ranging from English to research strategies to WU101.

The iREAD program encourages learning for a lifetime and creates partnerships across campus and in the community. For more information, visit Washburn.edu/iread.

Close/Open

Choose a feed:

What's an Ichabod?

Washburn's mascot, the Ichabod, honors the school's early benefactor, Ichabod Washburn, a 19th century Massachusetts industrialist. The original design of the studious-looking, tuxedo-clad figure was created in 1938 by Bradbury Thompson (ba '34), who became an internationally acclaimed graphic artist. Design wasn't Thompson's only consideration. To the stylized Ichabod the artist attributed the qualities of "...courage and enthusiasm, as shown by his brisk walk. He is democratic and courteous, for he tips his hat as he passes. Sincere in his search for truth and knowledge, he studiously carries a book under his arm..."